Argentina
Zolo Classic Fincas Patagónicas Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Top me up! You can’t argue with a wine this delicious at this price point … and if you do, you haven’t had enough of it. Rich, full-bodied with luscious blackberry and plum aromas. Yum. Blackberries and smoke on the finish. More please. Malbec food pairings: spare ribs, steak fajitas, lamb cutlets, stir-fry tenderloin, grilled burgers, pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2016 183905 13.8% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Agostino Inicio Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Juicy, generous and mouth-watering with aromas of purple plum, black plum and mocha-dark chocolate. This wine was matured for six months in American and French oak. Great value. Perfect for hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 330670 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joffré E Hijas Grand Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A satisfying and pleasant red with good structure and black fruit aromas. Full-bodied but not overly heavy. A well-structured Cabernet Sauvignon that finishes with attractive blackberry and smoke. Lovely. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled lamb, pork tenderloin, meat laden pizza, spaghetti Bolognese. Drink: 2012 - 2016 243212 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fabre Montmayou Gran Reserva, Vistalba Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Seductive blackberries and fleshy black plums, full-bodied with gorgeous velvet texture. Spice and cedar smoke on a long and persistent finish. A beautiful expression of Mendoza malbec. The grapes are grown on vines that are over 80 years old in Vistalba and Las Compuertas regions, and they're cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare, which is low, and aged in French barrel for 12 months. Yum! Malbec food pairings: lamb burgers, grilled steaks, sausages, breaded veal cutlets. Drink: 2012 - 2016 279802 15% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sottano Reserva De Familia Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Supremely balanced and complex with rich, concentrated aromas and flavours of blackberry, cassis, cedar and smoke. Full-bodied and supple with a long, satisfying finish. Perfect for osso buco. Drink: 2013 - 2019 324707 14.7% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Stonier Pinot Noir 2011, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia: Delightful! Happy cherries tickle the senses. Lovely satin texture and finish that makes you long for more and more. Elegant and balanced yet so vibrant. Perfect for a long evening of conversation. Pinot Noir food pairings: basil pesto, planked salmon, roast chicken. Drink: 2012 - 2016 25338 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 92/100. August 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tahbilk Shiraz 2009, Nagambie Lakes, Central Victoria, Australia: Full-bodied and mouth-watering. Black and super smoky and oaky. Full-bodied with a dry finish. Fire up the barbecue! Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, pork with soy. Drink: 2012 - 2015 214742 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tournon Mathilda Victorian Michel Chapoutier Shiraz 2010, Victoria, Australia: Blackberry juiciness and mocha oak. Sooooo good! Top me up, and I want another hamburger please. Drink: 2013 - 2016 336966 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Paxton Shiraz 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied with black fruit. Straightforward and pleasing. Shiraz food pairings: organic steaks, peppercorn-mushroom burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 327403 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bird in Hand Sparkling Pinot Noir 2011, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Very pretty with aromas of field raspberry. Dry and refreshing. Nice price. Drink: 2013 - 2015 327429 12.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Zonte's Footstep The Love Symbol Savagnin Blanc 2010, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Dried herbs, nettle and lemongrass with refreshing mouth-watering acidity. Zesty and medium-bodied with a clean finish. Try it with vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2015 333237 12% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Yalumba Y Series Viognier 2012, South Australia, Australia: Textbook viognier with an opening salvo of white floral notes, spices, rose petal, white peach. Floods the senses with the essence of summer in a glass. Amazing aperitif and food companion. Brilliant! Viognier food pairings: chicken in a ginger, orange sauce, lobster thermidore, pizza, coquilles st. jacques, sweet-potatoes with marshmallows. Drink: 2012 - 2016 470062 14.5% D 750 mL $16.00 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
d'Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Winemaker Chester Osborn has a terrific reputation for his shiraz and cabernet wines, but this white blend of Viognier with 32% Marsanne is terrific! Not a lot of oak, but it combines with the fruit vibrancy to create an intriguingly rich and deliecious wine. Aromas of apricot and white flowers with a dash of spice on the finish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 662775 13.1% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Daniel Lenko Old Vines American Oak Chardonnay 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Buttery, balanced and beautiful. Full-bodied chardonnay with toasted almond and green apple aromas and flavours. The grapes for this wine come from vines planted in 1959, the oldest Chardonnay vines in Canada according to the winemaker. To achieve extra richness, roundness and depth, this chardonnay was both barrel fermented and barrel aged in mostly new American oak for 1 year. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2016 352328 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridge Road Estate Winery Baco Noir 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Ultra juicy and mouth-watering with fleshy ripe purple plums and blueberries. If you love baco, try this one. Pair this full-bodied, smooth red with BBQ meats and pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2015 350686 12.8% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 83/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pillitteri Estates Winery Viognier 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Lovely, subtle and refreshing with gentle hints of rose petal, lychee and baking spices on the nose. Great acidity for mild to medium curries. Medium-bodied with a long finish. Nicely done! Viognier food pairings: grilled chicken kebabs. Drink: 2013 - 2016 330894 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Coffin Ridge Bone Dry Riesling 2011, V.Q.A., Ontario, Canada: Lovely nose of lemon-lime zest and some flinty stone. Dry and refreshing with terrific acidity for seafood and cream sauces. Medium-bodied and balanced. Great craftsmanship! Drink: 2013 - 2017 232744 11.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridge Road Estate Winery Riesling 2012, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Pretty, light and floral, with lime blossom and apricot fleshy ripeness. Perfect for light seafood dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 346858 10.5% M 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henry of Pelham Winery Family Tree Red 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A savoury and delicious red with a terrific balance and full-bodied weight. Great food wine for hearty meaty dishes. Food pairings: ribs, burgers, smoky red meats. Drink: 2012 - 2015 247882 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quails' Gate Estate Winery Pinot Noir 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Gorgeous depth and concentration of flavour, yet not heavy. Fleshy ripe black cherries, violets and some dark spice. This is seductive pinot. Pair with something naughty. Pinot Noir food pairings: herb crusted chicken; roasted lamb; savory slow cooked game. Drink: 2013 - 2018 585760 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. August 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Good Earth Vineyard & Winery Betty's Blend 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Light- to medium-bodied with delicate aromas of white flowers and white peach. Nice aperitif or companion to light seafood dishes. Food pairings: shellfish, lemongrass chicken, summer salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 327791 11.6% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Palatine Hills Estate Winery Neufeld Vineyard Jeff Innes Sauvignon Blanc 2012, V.Q.A., Niagara Lakeshore, Ontario, Canada: Off-dry with some sweetness for glazed ham and spicy dishes. Medium-bodied with apricot flavours. Unusual for sauvignon blanc. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: sushi, spicy jalapeño dish. Drink: 2013 - 2014 352344 13.5% D 750 mL $18.00 Score: 83/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Angels Gate Winery Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Vibrant and refreshing with lemon-lime aromas and flavours. Great mouth-watering acidity for food, including fish and shellfish. Lanolin finish. Drink: 2013 - 2015 352385 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jackson-Triggs Delaine Vineyard Cabernet Merlot 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific, full-bodied red with accented red and dark berries, plums and richly ripe cassis and currants. Beautifully structured with excellent balance, weight, depth and length on the finish. Take a taste of what Canada can do. Cabernet Merlot food pairings: beef, grilled radicchio, basil pesto. Drink: 2014 - 2019 360305 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Signos De Origen Emiliana Winemaker's Selection Syrah 2011, La Quebrada, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Rich and dark with fleshy blackberries and black plums. Full-bodied with smoky, toasty oak core wrapped around a mocha-dark chocolate core. This was the first Chilean winery to adopt the international environmental standards of the ISO 14001 back in 2001. This organic wine is a blend of Syrah, Merlot, and Viognier grapes. A dazzling display with depth, richness and concentration. Enjoy it tonight with your favourite grass-fed beef dish. Syrah food pairings: barbecued ribs coated in a spicy sauce, char-grilled lamb cutlets, barbecued chicken. Drink: 2012 - 2015 212407 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Mas des Bressades Cuvée Tradition Cyril Mares, Prop.-Récolt. Syrah Grenache 2011, A.C., Costières De Nîmes, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Savoury and dark with big black fruit, smoke and meaty notes. A heart of darkness runs through this rich, deep, full-bodied wine. This wine is blend of Syrah and Grenache grapes, from a region you should put on your radar. This is an incredible price. Buy by the caseload for parties and your own pleasure. This wine was fermented in stainless steel and aged in concrete tank amazing price for this quality. Syrah Grenache food pairings: char-grilled lamb cutlets. Drink: 2012 - 2016 143099 14.1% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château De Pennautier Terroirs D'altitude Cabardès Comte Nicolas De Lorgeril, Prop. 2009, A.C., Midi, France: A brooding black bruiser that offer aromas and flavours of fleshy black fruit, tar and smoke. Concentrated and deep. Good price. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: charcuterie, cheeses. Drink: 2013 - 2016 328187 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fleur Carrere Château La Fleur Grands Landes Meritage 2010, A.C., Montagne Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: Pleasantly bitter black fruit, tar and smoke. Full-bodied and straight-forward. Good price. Meritage food pairings: braised meats, smoky steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2015 336909 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Des Houdières Fleurie Gamay (Beaujolais) 2011, A.C., Beaujolais, France: This makes my mouth just smelling it! Aromas and flavours of tart cherries, cranberries and red plum. Medium-bodied with lots of acidity that cries out for food such as salmon or tuna or roast chicken. Smooth with a refreshing finish. Nice price. Gamay (Beaujolais) food pairings: veal chops. Drink: 2012 - 2014 342725 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Marie Blanche Signargues 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: A full-bodied, straight-forward wine with aromas and flavours of black fruit. Food pairings: herbed beef skewers, Jamaican beef patties. Drink: 2013 - 2015 328179 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 86/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Chauveau La Charmette Pouilly Fumé 2011, A.C., Loire, France: Classic Old World Sauvignon Blanc that's pure lemon light and crispness. Not much oak evident here; great mouth-watering juiciness for food. Not grassy, just refreshing and focused. Makes me focused too ... on the bottle. Pouilly-Fumé is one of best regions in Europe for Sauvignon Blanc: it's classic with great finesse and length. Pouilly Fumé food pairings: Asian pork tenderloin, asparagus and sugar snap pea soup, chanterelle mushroom stuffed chicken breast, potatoes au gratin, curry dusted scallops. Drink: 2012 - 2015 274357 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Haut-Colombier Meritage 2009, A.C., Côtes De Bordeaux - Blaye, France: Pitch black with lots of toasty oak, charry-tar notes and roasted black fruit. Do I even have to say that it's full-bodied. Pair with a brontosaurus burger. Drink: 2013 - 2016 336891 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
André Blanck Rosenburg Pinot Blanc 2011, A.C., Ancienne Cour Des Chevaliers De Malte, Alsace, France: Refreshing limes and green apples, without a trace of oak. Terrific minerality and mouth-watering flavor. Perfect for casual get-togethers. The "Ancienne Cour des Chevaliers de Malte" on this winery's labels refers to the fact that the estate sits on land that once home to the cellars of the Knights of Malta, an ancient military order created in the Middle Ages. This group is still active today, though its focus is now on charitable causes. I'll drink to that! Pinot Blanc food pairings: quiche, asparagus, Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2012 - 2015 626606 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Lafond Tavel Grenache 2012, Rhone, France: A gorgeous, bone-dry robust rose from the benchmark region in France. Lovely aromas and flavours of field raspberries. Pair with grilled seafood, roast chicken, or drink on its own as a refreshing aperitif. Grenache food pairings: grilled salmon, tuna. Drink: 2013 - 2014 950709 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre Sparr Brut Rosé, A.C., Alsace, France: Superb quality and taste for the price! Toasty with some field raspberry notes. Bone-dry and refreshing. Here's your summer party bubbly. Bring it on! A terrific producer and well-known in Alsace and around the world. This bubbly is made using the traditional champagne method from only pinot noir grapes. Rosé food pairings: asparagus and linguine carbonara, pizza, cheddar dill puffs. Drink: 2012 - 2015 39016 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Perrin & Fils Réserve Rosé 2012, A.C., Côtes Du Rhone, France: Full-bodied with enticing aromas of red berries and currants. Smooth and mouth-watering. Great aperitif or companion to seafood. Rosé food pairings: seared scallops prepared with fresh herbs. Drink: 2013 - 2014 719062 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Miraval Rosé 2012, A.C., Côtes De Provence, France: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have just launched their first wine, a lovely, pink petal, bone-dry rose from Provence. The couple owns the winery and estate Château Miraval, even though you'll find no reference to them on the label. This wine doesn't need to ride on the back of their celebrity: it stands alone as a terrific, refreshing rose with aromas of small field strawberries, orange zest and light spices. Should I add though that there's a hint of drama on the nose, with a surprise twist finish? Sure to be a box office hit at your liquor store. Pair with planked salmon, pate, roast chicken, and of course, movie night. May I suggest Mr. and Mrs. Smith? Drink: 2013 - 2015 342584 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine De La Gitonnièree Touraine Vign. De Thézéa-La-Romaine Sauvignon Blanc 2011, A.C., Loire, France: Pure lemon and lanolin essence! Stunning with no heavy oak but packed with flavour and body. Great acidity for food. Double yum! Previous vintages of this wine have won the Silver Medal at the Concours des Vins du Val de Loire. Vibrant, clean and fresh with a long, racy finish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: lightly buttery seafood, asparagus-chèvre omelet, Asian chicken salad, pasta, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2012 - 2015 168914 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cheval Quancard Réserve Blanc Meritage 2011, A.C., Bordeaux, France: Intriguingly different with spices, Asian pear and some campfire aromas from the toasty oak. Good acidity for roast chicken. Excellent price. Drink: 2013 - 2016 336842 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Simonnet-Febvre Chablis 2010, A.C., Burgundy, France: Clean and crisp with a dry finish. White peach and lemon on the palate with a lovely medium body. Very typical of the region. Brisk with a lick of lemon zest on the finish. Chablis food pairings: prawn bisque, brie fondue, mushroom stuffed chicken breast, oysters, grilled vegetables. Drink: 2012 - 2017 41780 12.7% XD 750 mL $30.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Grand Veneur Clos De Sixte Lirac Alain Jaume & Fils 2010, A.C., Rhône, France: Beautifully concentrated with a core of hedonistic black cherry liqueur running through it. Full-bodied, dry, complex and ultimately satisfying. Gutsy and muscular with a fair kick of dark fruit in its heart. Decant for 1 hour. Food pairings: meat dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2017 76349 14.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 92/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Fortia Cuvée Du Baron Grenache Syrah Mourvèdre 2010, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: This wine, a blend of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre grapes, is a river of blackberry liqueur concentration of flavour and pleasure. Full-bodied and rich and smooth. So satisfying. Drink it with the heartiest of meat dishes. For diehard hedonists. Incredibly long and aromatic finish. Wow! Grenache Syrah Mourvèdre food pairings: hearty meat dishes, barbecued chicken, char-grilled lamb. Drink: 2012 - 2020 959999 14.5% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 93/100. August 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lionel Osmin & Cie Foehn 2009, Juracon, Aoc, France: Gorgeous clementine and apricot richness yet not cloying sweet. This dessert wine is blend of 70% petit manseng and 30% gross manseng grapes. A long, honeyed finish. Drink: 2013 - 2019 343582 14% S 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Paloumey Meritage 2009, A.C., Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France: Full-bodied with fleshy black fruit, smoke and a touch of tar on the nose and palate. Great Bordeaux for the price. Decant 2 hours for maximum pleasure and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 189241 13% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Germany
Schmitges Erdener Treppchen Riesling Spätlese 2011, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: Lusciously gorgeous aromas and flavours of apricot, peach and lime. Great acidity balances the natural sweetness perfectly: think glazed ham or spicy dishes and curries. The grapes for this wine are picked late in the season so that they accumulate extra sweetness and complex flavours. Lovely orange zest finish. Perfect! Drink: 2013 - 2020 336180 8% M 750 mL $23.95 Score: 94/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Greece
Boutari Naoussa Xinomavro 2016, Naoussa, Greece: Full-bodied, smooth and juicy with haunting aromas of rose petal and dried red fruits. Lots of acidity for food. Earthy and dry. Classic Old World style, not fruit-forward. Some dark spices on the finish makes it ideal for hearty meat dishes. This has the signature of Xinomavro, the leading red grape in modern Greek wines, with cedar and black olive notes. Loads of mouth-watering acidity for lamb. Excellent for the price. Drink: 2018 - 2022 764118 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Fazio Levantio Insolia 2011, D.O.C., Erice, Sicily, Italy: Fresh, clean and crisp with subtle aromas and flavours of lime blossom and lemongrass. Great for seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2015 339119 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Terredora Loggia Della Serra Greco Di Tufo 2011, D.O.C.G., Campania, Italy: Dry and refreshing with subtle notes of lemon and white grapefruit. Good acidity. Medium-bodied with a crisp finish. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2015 288927 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 85/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Martina Cantine Riondo Appassimento 2010, Igt Rosso Veneto, Italy: Full-bodied, round and supple. The merlot grapes that comprise this wine were dried under controlled condition for 20-25 days in the Verona region. Aromas of dark fruit . Nice for the price. Pair with hamburgers. Food pairings: mushroom risotto, grilled eggplant-and-mushroom kebabs. Drink: 2013 - 2015 326595 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 86/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ippolito 1845 Rosso Calabrise 2011, Igt Calabria, Italy: Pleasant, full-bodied and juicy with aromas and flavours of dark red fruit and some spices. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2013 - 2017 338970 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Liber Pater Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore Cantine Vincenzo Ippolito Gaglioppo 2010, D.O.C., Calabria, Sicily, Italy: Full-bodied with fleshy purple plum and black cherry aromas wrapped in a blanket of toasty oak. Brooding, temperamental and fascinating, like the boyfriend you never got over after the break-up. Unlike that boyfriend, though, this wine finishes smooth and satisfying. Pair it with a triumphant smile. Gaglioppo food pairings: grilled veal chops, risotto, beef and red wine stew, grilled lobster tail, port tenderloin, spaghetti and meatballs. Drink: 2012 - 2015 121061 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Taurino Riserva Salice Salentino 2009, D.O.P., Puglia, Italy: Peppery with dark spices and black fruit on the nose. Savoury, meaty and full-bodied with juicy smooth layers of pleasure. This is mostly the Negroamaro grape with a splash of Malvasia Nera. Terrific depth, balance and elegance. Attractive dark fruit and spice on the finish. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes, meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2012 - 2015 177527 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mezzacorona Rotaliano Riserva Teroldego 2009, D.O.C., Alto Adige, Trentino, Italy: Full-bodied and juicy with fleshy black fruit and some smoke. Great for grilled meats. Drink: 2013 - 2015 732222 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Trecciano Colli Senesi Chianti 2011, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Violets and rose and dark red fruit on the nose. Supple and almost full-bodied on the palate. Pair with meat dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 944586 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Annaberta Wines Amarone Della Valpolicella 2009, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Loaded with toasty, charry oak. Black fruit and smoke underneath this full-bodied bruiser. Decant 2 hours. Drink it with prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2020 338921 15% XD 750 mL $35.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Mora Winery Montefalco Unfiltered Sagrantino 2006, D.O.C.G., Umbria, Italy: Blackberry jam and toasty, tarry oak on the full-bodied bruiser. definitely decant this wine for 2 hours, better yet, leave it in the cellar for a while. Pair with pepper steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 342394 15.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Raiano Taurasi 2008, D.O.C.G., Campania, Italy: Dark spices, black cherry and anise on the nose and palate. Full-bodied red with a tannic grip. Cedar brush finish. Give it some time in the cellar. Pair with steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 344234 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Apollonio Terragnolo Primitivo 2007, I.G.T., Salento Rosso, Puglia, Italy: How delightful! Smoky campfire wine with fleshy black fruit. Share a ghost story and pass the bottle, draw the tartan blanket closer around your shoulders. Previous vintages of this wine won the Grande Médaille d’Or at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. Full-bodied with a long finish. Primitivo food pairings: grilled rare steaks, blackened ribs with BBQ sauce, coq au vin, Cornish game hen, tomato tarte. Drink: 2012 - 2015 211813 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pasqua Black Label Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso 2010, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Juicy and full-bodied with delicious layers of dark fruit flavours and some mocha-dark chocolate. Great price! Very easy-drinking, in fact, this wine goes down slippery fast! Pair it with hearty meat dishes and your favourite easy-going sitcom like The Big Bang Theory or Modern Family. Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso food pairings: steak, ribs, pasta with a Bolognese sauce, grilled veggies, turkey, pasta. Drink: 2012 - 2016 203968 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Volpaia Giovannella Stianti Chianti Classico 2010, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Enticing aromas of sun-dried tomato and baked fruit with a mouth-watering juiciness, smooth texture. Medium- to almost full-bodied with a lean style for chianti due to the high altitudes where the vineyards are located. Elegant with great finesse. Lovely long and aromatic finish. This wine is a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot and Syrah, matured for 12 months in oak. Chianti Classico food pairings: tomato sauce, sun-dried tomato, baked fruit, spaghetti and meatballs, Bocconcini salad pizza. Drink: 2012 - 2016 953828 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Hãhã Pinot Noir 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lots of mouth-watering acidity and dark cherry aromas and flavours. Medium-bodied. Pair with grilled pork chops. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2016 351147 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.00 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jules Taylor Pinot Noir 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Rich raspberry aromas and flavours. Full-bodied, layered and deep, especially for pinot. Pair with a range of meats: don't hold yourself back. Drink: 2013 - 2016 329805 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spinyback Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Nelson, South Island, New Zealand: Herbal and grassy with big mouth-watering acidity for a variety of dishes. Medium-bodied and food-friendly. Lime zested on crushed stones on the finish. Yum! Pair with shellfish and salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, linguine carbonara, asparagus and sugar snap pea soup, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2012 - 2014 694737 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Blind River Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy, herbal and vibrant with terrific mouth-watering acidity for seafood and salads. Beguiling and tangy with a great kick of lime zing on the finish. Top me up! Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, asparagus and linguine carbonara, asparagus and sugar snap pea soup, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2012 - 2014 141499 13% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Burro Velho Aragonés Syrah 2010, Vinho Regional Tejo, Portugal: Big purple plums on the nose. Full-bodied, juicy and smooth on the palate. Finish is loaded with coffee, smoke and toasted oak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 342774 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Ernie Els Big Easy 2011, W.O., Western Cape, South Africa: A terrific, black smoke, big oak red with brooding dark fruit and cedar notes. Perfect for when you almost got a hole in one... Yes, this is named after the famous golfer who owns the winery. This wine is a blend of mostly shiraz with some cabernet sauvignon with small dashes of cinsault, mourvèdre, grenache and viognier grapes. Savoury, meaty note with mouth-watering juiciness. Let's go back to the clubhouse and discuss. Food pairings: grilled beef medallions in a peppercorn sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2016 220038 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Finca Nueva Crianza Tempranillo 2008, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Full-bodied and juicy with aromas and flavours of black cherry, vanilla spice and smoke. Mouth-watering acidity for pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 292763 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Torres Celeste Crianza 2010, D.O., Ribera Del Duero, Spain: Juicy, dark and delicious! Big black fleshy fruit wrapped in a smoky blanket. Terrific for this price. The finish is saturated with dark fruit flavours and aromas that provoke the desire for another glass. A perfect pairing for Game of Thrones. Celeste Crianza food pairings: grilled steak, pork chops, lamb. Drink: 2012 - 2016 210872 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Eidosela Albariño 2011, D.O., Rias Baixas, Spain: Lemongrass and lemon zest with tart green apple refreshment. Medium-bodied and crisp. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2015 336271 13% XD 750 mL $15.75 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
José Pariente Verdejo 2012, D.O., Rueda, Spain: Clean with lemongrass and lime zest. Pure and focused with mouth-watering acidity. Medium-bodied. Perfect for a wide range of shellfish, salads and chicken dishes. Verdejo food pairings: grilled fish, prawns, pork sausages. Drink: 2013 - 2015 219559 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.25 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Totus Tuus Reserva Bodegas Matilde Cava Método Tradicional, D.O., Penedès, Spain: A crisp, toasty blend of 40% chardonnay, 18% xarel-lo, 18% macabeo, 18% parellada and 6% pinot noir grapes. Stunningly great price. Fresh, crisp lime notes with lots of mouse and bubbles. Perfect for parties and gatherings. Drink: 2013 - 2015 226282 11.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Ghost Pines Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa County Sonoma County, United States: Loaded with black fruit and some toasty oak on the nose. Full-bodied and luscious on the palate, with mouth-watering blackberries and some smoke. Try it with a rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 135376 13.9% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
St. Francis Chardonnay 2010, Sonoma County, California, United States: Buttery and balanced with full-bodied goodness. Nice price for classic Californian chardonnay. Aromas of fleshy white peach and toasty oak. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2016 317131 14% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J. Lohr October Night Chardonnay 2011, Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California, United States: Orange clementine and amber notes with lots of baking spices on this unusual full-bodied chardonnay. Mouth-watering acidity with a good finish. Interesting. Drink: 2013 - 2015 225375 14.9% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Truchard Chardonnay 2011, Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with attractive notes of green apple and toasty oak. Balanced and mouth-watering. Drink: 2013 - 2015 60459 14.1% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Columbia Crest Winery H3 Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State, United States: Mocha dark chocolate from oak aging, fleshy blackberry, mouth-watering juiciness. Pair with rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 210047 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Havens Stonehedge Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with a tannic grip. Dark chocolate and black fruit aromas. Toasty oak. Decant 2 hours. Pair with steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 340471 14.3% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Grove Street Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Sonoma County, California, United States: Mocha and dark chocolate from generous oak aging with black fruit and smoke. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: blackened lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2016 161190 14.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir 2011, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Full-bodied with cherry aromas and a tannic grip. Decant 2 hours. Pair with meaty fish, like salmon and tuna. This is the convenient half bottle size. Drink: 2013 - 2015 234484 13.5% XD 375 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir 2011, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Full-bodied with cherry aromas and a tannic grip. Decant 2 hours. Pair with meaty fish, like salmon and tuna. Drink: 2013 - 2015 234534 14% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 87/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Saintsbury Pinot Noir 2009, Carneros, California, United States: Tart and mouth-watering with mysteries of black cherry aromas and flavours. Almost full-bodied, complex and not overly fruity. Great acidity for planked salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: prime rib, grilled steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2017 359265 13.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Ste. Michelle Canoe Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State, United States: Full-bodied, savoury, meaty and juicy with classic aromas and flavours of black fruit and mocha toasty oak. Cocoa and dark spice on the finish. Nice. Drink: 2013 - 2016 955617 14.1% XD 750 mL $35.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2011, Contra Costa County, Central Coast, California, United States: Blackberry jam and toasty, black fruit, tar, smoke and toasty oak. Full-bodied. Perfect for BBQ meats and a campfire. Zinfandel food pairings: pulled pork, barbecued ribs. Drink: 2013 - 2016 719211 15% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bonterra Robert Blue Merlot 2010, Mendocino County, California, United States: This organic wine has just 8 mg/l of free sulphur. Almost full-bodied, smooth and supple with attractive aromas of black plum. Pair with pork chops. Merlot food pairings: eggplant parmigiana, mole poblano chicken, homemade burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 984724 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clos Du Bois Pinot Noir 2011, California, United States: Lots of mouth-watering acidity that's perfectly balanced by round cherry-berry flavours and some mocha from the oak aging. Full-bodied and juicy. What a barrel of fun! Pinot Noir food pairings: barbecued beef, lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2016 161273 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart